NCERT Solution for Class 10 Science Chapter 1
Chemical Reactions and Equations
Exercises Questions
Page No-15
Questions No-10
Why is respiration considered an exothermic reaction? Explain.
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Respiration is a process in which we inhale oxygen from the atmosphere which oxidises glucose in our body to produce carbon dioxide, water and heat is evolved.
C6H12O6(aq) + 6O2(g) ———-> 6CO2 + 6H 2O(l) + Heat
Hence, heat is evolved during respiration it is considered as an exothermic reaction.
In the course of respiration glucose is broken into carbon dioxide and energy is released. That’s why it is considered as an exothermic reaction.
C6H12O6(aq)+6O2→6CO2(aq)+6H2O(I)+Energy
Respiration is considered an exothermic reaction because it releases energy in the form of heat. This energy is released when the chemical bonds in organic molecules, such as glucose, are broken down and the products are formed. During respiration, glucose and oxygen are used as reactants, and the reaction proceeds to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy. Here’s why respiration is classified as an exothermic reaction:
Energy Release: The primary purpose of respiration is to generate energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) that can be used by cells for various metabolic processes. The breakdown of glucose during respiration yields energy that is essential for cellular functions.
Higher Energy Reactants, Lower Energy Products: In the chemical reactions involved in respiration, the reactants (glucose and oxygen) contain higher chemical potential energy compared to the products (carbon dioxide and water). This difference in energy content results in a net release of energy, which is primarily in the form of heat.
Heat Production: The metabolic reactions during respiration involve the oxidation of glucose, which releases energy and produces carbon dioxide and water. The release of this energy contributes to the body’s heat production and helps maintain the core body temperature. This heat is especially important in warm-blooded animals, including humans, to regulate their internal temperature.
Exothermic Nature: Respiration is classified as an exothermic reaction because it follows the fundamental principle of exothermic reactions, where the overall heat change (ΔH) is negative, indicating that heat is released during the process. The release of heat is a hallmark of exothermic reactions.
In summary, respiration is considered exothermic because it involves the conversion of higher-energy reactants (glucose and oxygen) into lower-energy products (carbon dioxide and water), with the release of energy, including heat. This energy is vital for sustaining life and maintaining the body’s functions, and it plays a crucial role in thermoregulation, allowing organisms to maintain a stable body temperature.